Second Oldest Man Alive on Record Turns 111, DOROT Volunteers Keep Him Active

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DOROT Volunteers Celebrate Milestone Birthdays

DOROT's Supercentenarian

He has taught me two very valuable lessons: it is important as we age to keep looking outside ourselves for things to be interested in, and, how important it is to remain curious and embrace adventure.

New York, NY (PRWEB)February 20, 2014

DOROT, a non-profit social service agency dedicated to relieving the social isolation of older adults, celebrated the 111th birthday of Dr. Alexander Imich, a supercentenarian born in 1903 and DOROT’s oldest client. Working with his DOROT volunteer Friendly Visitor and social worker, we have submitted a request to establish him as the “second oldest man” alive to Guinness World Records.

To help celebrate his momentous 111th birthday, DOROT volunteers, including teenagers, spent time visiting with Dr. Imich. When the teens were asked what it was like to meet with the second oldest man alive, they reported that, “Dr. Imich is an incredible man… a successful scientist and parapsychologist…he told us stories of his childhood in Poland, and the refuge he took in Russia against Hitler. He explained his struggles of being Jewish and his voyage to America.” Another said, “Dr. Imich was so interesting! Although he is hard of hearing, there was not a hitch in conversation during our visit.”

A DOROT volunteer whose frequent visits expanded their relationship said “Getting to know Alex Imich has been one of the highlights of my life. When we visit, our conversation could be about anything, because he is curious about everything. He has taught me two very valuable lessons: it is important as we age to keep looking outside ourselves for things to be interested in, and, how important it is to remain curious and embrace adventure. I believe that part of the reason Alex has lived so long is that he has lived his life to the utmost. Each thing that has happened to him is an adventure, whether that has been for better or worse.”

Many older adults do not have anyone with whom to celebrate their birthdays - DOROT engages volunteers to help our frailest seniors remain connected to those who care with programs that combat the solitude felt on days that were once celebrations. DOROT’s Greeting Card Project encourages creativity by having volunteers from around the country design cards that are given to seniors to help them celebrate their birthday and holidays. DOROT sends over 3,400 cards to seniors every year – these cards are often the only recognition they receive. Families with young children are also encouraged to volunteer to help mark older adults’ birthdays by delivering cakes and sharing the joy of the occasion through our Family Birthday Mitzvah Project.

DOROT’s programs provide mutually beneficial opportunities for volunteers and seniors, creating lasting friendships, improving well-being of the elderly and keeping them connected to a caring community.

About DOROT

Since 1976, DOROT has worked to alleviate social isolation among the elderly and provide services to help them live independently as valued members of the community. We serve the Jewish and wider community, bringing the generations together in a mutually beneficial partnership of elders, volunteers and professionals. Visit http://www.dorotusa.org for more information.